Fairfax County is the largest jurisdiction in Virginia with 265 precincts countywide. It takes thousands of enthusiastic and trained election officers to help ensure that we have efficient and well-run elections. We need your help – please consider applying today!
*Please note the process of becoming an election officer, the pay rate, and other matters change election-by-election. The instructions provided in the video and podcast may not accurately reflect current procedures, practices, or pay rates.
WHO CAN BE AN ELECTION OFFICER?
A registered Virginia voter, who isn’t an elected official or an employee of an elected official.
On Election Day, you must be available to serve from approximately 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. or later (polls are open 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.).
Helpful traits to have include good communications skills, high energy level, enjoy being with people, detail oriented and patience. Computer and bilingual skills are also valuable!
WHAT WILL I DO AS AN ELECTION OFFICER?
Prior to Election Day you will complete election officer training, so you will be prepared to:
Set up voting equipment.
Check voter IDs and check names on the electronic poll book.
Provide assistance and instructions in using the voting machines.
Tabulate the results at the close of the polls.
To learn more about what is expected of election officers, read our code of conduct here.
Find out more about serving as an election officer here.
WILL I BE PAID?
Election officers are paid $250 for working a full Election Day. Election officers must work at least one general election before being considered for an assistant chief election officer ($300) or chief election officer ($350).
You can also volunteer your time instead of being paid!
WHERE WILL I BE WORKING?
Whenever possible, you will be assigned to your closest or "home" precinct. However, if there are no vacancies at your polling place, you may be assigned to a nearby precinct. Unassigned officers are asked to serve as standbys to fill in for scheduled officers who cannot serve.
Please note: The Fairfax County Office of Elections assigns election officers at its discretion based on criteria including but not limited to the staffing needs for each election, precinct requirements, language skills, geographic location, experience, and party affiliation.
YOU MENTIONED TRAINING?
New election officers must complete training (approximately 3 hours) prior to serving at the polls.
Existing election officers must complete training if mandated, or due to changes in equipment.
Other supplemental training classes may also be available.
You may be contacted by the local political party to confirm your political party affiliation.
Once your eligibility has been verified, we will contact you with additional instructions, including visiting our offices to fill out forms such as the Federal Employment Eligibility Verification form (I-9), and your election officer oath and appointment form.
Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during the application and/or interview processes per the American with Disabilities Act. Contact Gretchen Coleman at ElectionOfficers@fairfaxcounty.gov.
INTERESTED IN SERVING?
View the Election Officer Training page for more information.
